Summary as Introduced
Amends the Flood Control Act of 1945. Requires, not later than July 1, 2026 and before the end of each successive 5-year period after that date, the Department of Natural Resources to prepare and adopt a comprehensive State flood. Provides that the State flood plan must: (1) provide for orderly preparation for and response to flood conditions to protect against the loss of life and property; (2) be a guide to State and local flood control policy; and (3) contribute to water development where possible. Provides that the Department shall adopt guidance principles for the State flood plan that reflect the public interest of the entire State. Requires the Department to: (1) designate flood planning regions corresponding to each river basin; (2) provide technical and financial assistance to the flood planning groups; and (3) adopt guidance principles for the regional flood plans, including procedures for amending adopted plans. Requires the Department to prepare and adopt a plan describing the repair and maintenance needs of flood control dams and prepare and adopt a new plan before the end of the 10th year following the adoption of a plan. Creates the State Flood Plan Implementation Advisory Committee to review the overall operation, function, and structure of the State flood plan and rules adopted by the Department to implement the State flood plan.
Staff Analysis
Senate Bill 2311 proposes significant amendments to the Flood Control Act of 1945. The bill intends to enhance Illinois’ flood management strategies through comprehensive planning and coordinated efforts.
Key Provisions of SB 2311:
State Flood Plan Development: The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is mandated to prepare and adopt a comprehensive State flood plan by July 1, 2026, with subsequent updates every five years. This plan is intended to:
• Ensure organized preparation and response to flood conditions to safeguard lives and property.
• Serve as a guide for both State and local flood control policies.
• Promote water development opportunities where feasible.
Guidance Principles: The DNR is required to establish guidance principles for the State flood plan that reflect the public interest across the entire State.
Regional Flood Planning:
The DNR must:
• Designate flood planning regions corresponding to each river basin.
• Provide technical and financial assistance to regional flood planning groups.
• Adopt guidance principles for regional flood plans, including procedures for amending these plans.
Flood Control Dam Maintenance: The DNR is tasked with preparing and adopting a plan detailing the repair and maintenance needs of flood control dams, with updates required every ten years.
State Flood Plan Implementation Advisory Committee: The bill establishes this committee to review the overall operation, function, and structure of the State flood plan, as well as the rules adopted by the DNR for its implementation.
Changes to Existing Law:
The Flood Control Act of 1945 primarily focused on the construction and maintenance of flood control works. SB 2311 introduces a more structured and proactive approach to flood management by mandating regular, comprehensive planning and fostering collaboration between State and regional entities. This shift emphasizes not only reactive measures but also proactive strategies to mitigate flood risks and enhance water resource development.
By instituting regular updates to the State flood plan and involving regional planning groups, the bill aims to create a dynamic and responsive framework for flood management that aligns with contemporary challenges and public interests.